According to the DRC Ministry of Health, the outbreak has so far resulted in 16 suspected human cases and one laboratory-confirmed case, including a single fatality. The cases have been reported across four health zones situated near Lake Edward, a region known for its proximity to Uganda and shared ecological systems.
Officials have linked the ongoing outbreak in North Kivu to a similar occurrence on the Ugandan side of the border, where seven suspected human cases have been identified in the Kabale district of western Uganda. This cross-border pattern has prompted both countries to step up coordination in order to contain the spread.
In a statement, the Ministry of Health confirmed that enhanced disease surveillance, contact tracing, and epidemiological investigations are underway to trace the source of infection and map transmission chains. In addition, essential medical supplies have been deployed, and affected individuals are receiving appropriate treatment.
“Our efforts are focused on swiftly breaking the animal-to-human transmission,” said Dr. Boureima Sambo, WHO Representative in the DRC. “We are working closely with the government, communities, and partners to strengthen response measures to protect public health now and in the future.”
Anthrax is a serious bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis, primarily affecting livestock and wild animals but capable of spreading to humans through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. While human-to-human transmission is exceedingly rare, the disease can cause severe illness or death if left untreated.
The current outbreak was first flagged on March 22, after the unexplained deaths of several buffaloes and hippopotamuses in Virunga National Park raised concerns among wildlife authorities. Since then, veterinary teams have been actively conducting livestock vaccination campaigns in high-risk communities and safely disposing of infected animal carcasses to prevent further spread.
The DRC and Ugandan governments, alongside the WHO, continue to emphasize the need for vigilance, community awareness, and adherence to public health guidelines to bring the outbreak under control and prevent future flare-ups.